Closing the gap between the needs of students and the community they serve

University law clinics, within the structures that are identified, must satisfy two main objectives, namely teaching of students and service to clients. The students’ and clients’ needs must be balanced in order to overcome the gap between their respective needs. The outcomes of research into these sometimes conflicting needs are reflected upon. Students’ preparedness for practice, in view of the SAQA exit-level requirements for LLB is discussed. Teaching models are reviewed and curriculum planning methods are suggested. Accommodating the gap between the different needs can best be addressed by teaching in the live client model. Solutions in overcoming the shortcomings of this model are suggested.